WITH incredible safety features to protect occupants and pedestrians alike, it's clear to see  why Volvo cars are such a family favourite.

The emphasis on accident prevention makes the stylish S60 a vehicle which is crammed to bursting with technical specifications designed to detect and prevent contact with cars or pedestrians.

This is done via radar-type sensors which detect a person or car and the vehicle automatically applies the brakes.

But the S60's appeal doesn't just involve safety. This is a smartly designed vehicle that delivers excellent performance credentials, good all-round comfort, and whilst not cheap, is not second mortgage material.

And when you add in the amazing fuel economy - 60.1mpg combined - the S60 seems to have it all.

The interior is typically Volvo with a central console housing most of the controls and the creature comforts are plentiful, including sat nav, an excellent audio system, cruise control, dual zone climate control and plenty more besides.

Comfort levels are very good and there is ample room for five adults to travel in comfort with plenty of leg, elbow and head room in the back.

And passengers won't be restricted on how much luggage they can bring along either as the generously-sized boot can easily accommodate a couple of larger suitcases. And the boot's capacity can be increased further thanks to split folding rear seats.

So, the S60 has good looks, exceptional safety features and great economy, but what about the drive itself?

Well, that doesn't disappoint either. The six-speed manual transmission is very smooth and responsive and the 2.4-litre diesel-driven engine provides plenty of oomph.

In and around town, the S60 was very accomplished as it weaved through the busy traffic although the turning lock isn't the greatest asset resulting in three-point turns becoming five-point ones.

Then, out on the faster roads, the S60 easily blended in with the faster moving traffic. The road-holding was very good even in wetter conditions and the cabin noise relatively quiet.

I used to think Volvos lacked a little character, but that's not the case these days.